A former soldier who lost both his legs after stepping on an explosive during an ambush in Afghanistan spoke at a businessman’s dinner event to encourage the audience to donate to Help for Heroes (H4H).

L-Sgt Nathan Cumberland told the audience of more than 100 people how the charity had helped give him back his life, both physically and psychologically.

Kevin Clarke, managing director of Clintons Management, in Stainforth Road, Newbury Park, hosted the black tie event at The Prince Regent Hotel, Chigwell, to raise money for the charity that aids the war wounded. The event has potentially seen Mr Clarke’s efforts swell to £10,000.

Mr Cumberland, who is an H4H ambassador, said: “I am very committed to H4H as I have seen first-hand the good work that they do.”

Mr Clarke said that a lot of his fundraising success is down to the veteran’s emotive speech.

“He brought a new dimension to it and he got a standing ovation from the audience,” said Mr Clarke.

“From the event we have raised £5,000 and have got sponsorship coming in from it too.”

Mr Clarke is also cycling 350 miles from Brussels to Paris in the charity’s Big Battlefield Bike Ride in June with 300 others, including 50 wounded servicemen.